Parilexia nicetaria
Common NameParilexia nicetaria
Scientific NameParilexia nicetaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern North America (primarily southeastern United States)
Host Plantsoak, maple, cherry, willow, birch
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that feed on various broadleaf trees and shrubs, pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include its cryptic, finely striated brownish-grey wings with a somewhat squared-off appearance, and its relatively broad wings for a geometrid, resembling lichen or bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, somewhat rounded wings that are mottled brownish-grey to tan, covered in a fine, intricate network of darker lines and striations, giving a cryptic, bark-like appearance.
